Nathalia police have offered a timely reminder to rural road users to keep their eyes open for wildlife this summer.

Nathalia police have offered a timely reminder to rural road users to keep their eyes open for wildlife this summer.

Yesterday morning, Nathalia police Leading Senior Constable Kerry-Anne Rappell had the unpleasant task of putting down an injured kangaroo on the Murray Valley Hwy, just kilometres outside of the town.

A wildlife service had alerted the police officer to the kangaroo, which was still alive and attempting to hop away after it was hit by a vehicle.

Ldg Sen Const Rappell said the kangaroo had been severely injured and was suffering.

‘‘Wildlife are possibly on holidays as well, so for people who aren’t familiar with travelling along highways and rural roads, they need to be aware of the wildlife around them,’’ she said.

Native animals, particularly in summer, are often on the move in search of water and cool shelter.

Ldg Sen Const Rappell said the animals did not have road sense, and it was important that drivers remained vigilant, for the animal’s wellbeing, as well as their own safety.

‘‘We don’t want to see animals needlessly suffering, and it’s important that if people have collisions, to get in contact with the relevant authorities,’’ she said.

‘‘If an injured animal is lying in the middle of the road where it is too dangerous to move, phone the police; but if it is in a safe spot, the best way to deal with that would be through a wildlife service.’’

If you come across an injured animal on the roads, please phone Wildlife Victoria on 03 8400 7300.